Traffic Free Time Square? — Page 2

As someone who was a tourist for a very long time, but can now call himself a permanent resident of the city, I want to voice my opinion, for what it's worth. As a tourist, I always loved Times Square before the changes, because thats the vision I always had of New York. I felt that Times Square's charm came from the fact that I was trying to avoid getting hit by a car, or bus, or bike. I envisioned the traffic jams and the pedistrians all over the sidewalk...that's what it was 'supposed' to be in my eyes. But, now that I have been back since the changes were made, although it isn't what I'm used to, it has its own charm. I do feel it is meant for the tourists, and I don't really agree with that. I think visitors come to the city to see the city - not to see a 'made up' version of what it used to be.

love it when I'm walkin, hate it when I'm drivin

When I first saw it I think that the best word to describe it is surreal. I was standing on the corner of 46th street, and it did feel strange to just be able to stand there at first without having to doge cars and almost being hit.

Now, I actually kind of like it. In the summer months I have enjoyed sitting there and just listening to my Ipod or reading a book to kill time before going to a show. At least it gives me something to do now that the only good store in the area (Virgin) is closed. I know that I could have always gone to the 8th floor of The Marquis Hotel to read. But, particularly during the summer months and when it isn't too cold out, I find it more enjoyable to do that sort of thing outside.

I will agree with what others have said. That the original lawn chairs where not the best of ideas and I think that they are better off having the red metal chairs that they have now. I also like the fact that they have tables out there as well. There are times when I am going into the city to see a show and to save money I would brown bag it, much nicer to actually be able to eat at a table rather then in a corner in Shubert Alley or standing and walking around.

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if it wasn't for Disney, 42nd street would still be a dump.

And I've been going in and out of New York for about 15 years(for shows, classes, spending a weekend) and I love the traffic free Times Square. I say it stays.

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